Just for Horse Folks: Winter Blankets

Editor's note: We are running our popular series on winter clothing (and potentially gifts) for the horse person in your life--or perhaps for you to buy for yourself! In this article we look at coats and pants designed with the equestrian in mind.

Weatherbeeta Comfitec Premiere Thinsulate

Horses haven't changed over the years, but winter blankets sure have. While owners of blanket hooligans are still waiting for the most indestructible of all indestructible blankets, there are some sturdy options constructed with ripstop material and reinforced buckles. Waterproof, windproof and in all range of weights, these winter horse blankets let you keep riding while your horses stay comfortable all year long.

Waterproof blankets are where it's at. This Classic Medium-Weight Turnout Blanket from TuffRider has a padded wither area, a tail flap and shoulder gussets, and a double-buckle-front closure—all waterproof. Available in charcoal with neon blue. breeches.com

* WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Premier Thinsulate

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WeatherBeeta slims down this heavy-weight, ripstop, waterproof blanket with Thinsulate filling, which is lightweight and breathable, and Thermi-Heat lining, which reflects the horse's body heat while allowing moisture to escape. The Memory Foam Wither Relief Pad reduces rubbing, cupped shoulder darts offer freedom of shoulder movement, and Ezi-Clip front closure allows for simple on-and-off. This blanket also features a full-wrap 2-piece tail flap and elasticized, removable leg straps. Available in a grey/blue color combo. weatherbeeta.com

* WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Ultra Cozi [WB ComfitecUltraCozi 800989_LR]

This waterproof, breathable, ripstop blanket is not called “Ultra Cozi” for nothing. From front to back, there's the removable neck rug, Cozi Guard front closure, cupped shoulder darts, Memory Foam Wither Relief Pad, belly wrap, padded and removable leg straps, and two-piece tail flap that wraps around the horse's hind end. Two weight options (heavy and medium) have winter climates covered—plus the blanket comes with a matching fleece cooler and a three-year warranty. Available in charcoal with blue and white trim. weatherbeeta.com

Available as a blanket or as a sheet, this ripstop outer material is paired with a quick-dry nylon lining. The large umbrella tail flap won't let water under the blanket from the back side, and D-rings offer the option of adding a neck rug, making the blanket even more suitable for colder weather. Available in purple (rainbow horse). centaurhorsecare.com

* Rambo Supreme [Rambo Supreme AAAX32_KI00]

For horses that are hard on their blankets, the Rambo Supreme is even more improved. Made with 1000D ballistic nylon—the strongest, most durable turnout material on the market, it is also waterproof and breathable. This blanket is filled with new, lightweight Vari-Layer fiberfill to reduce weight but maximize heat retention and has an anti-static and anti-bacterial polyester lining. The V-front closure and neck design give freedom of movement to graze. The blanket also comes with a detachable hood. Available in two weights in black with red or black with silver. horseware.com

* Rambo Wug [Rambo Wug AAAV33_NNMA]

Similar to the Rambo Supreme in its construction materials and new Vari-Layer fill, Rambo Wug's fit is different. The Wug features a high cut neck design to give a snug fit and eliminate wither pressure. The neck design acts as an upturned collar on your coat, providing a little extra warmth and protection against winter. Available in a heavy weight in chocolate with chocolate and cream trim and a medium weight in chocolate with chocolate and blue trim. horseware.com

Warm socks and nice boots make winter worth working in. Socks can make or break a winter-barn experience, needing to be not too bulky but not too thin and still a fun-enough print to make you feel good.